The career exposure experience : an analysis from students’ perspective

Abstract

The scope behind this research was to analyse the students’ learning experience following their participation in the ‘Career Exposure Experience’. The majority of Year 10 (also referred to as Form 4) students attending state schools have the opportunity to experience this one-week exposure at a work-based environment. The purpose of the study was carried out in three geographical areas being the North, the Centre and the South of Malta, and is to evaluate the students’ viewpoints according to their firsthand experience of the ‘Career Exposure Experience’, basically whether they wish to further their studies after finishing secondary school or if entering the job market according to their skills and abilities. The geographical areas were taken into consideration to explore whether student’s thoughts, behaviours and choices vary according to the area/region they originate from. The three main colleges: Maria Regina, St Margaret and St Ignatius were considered as being major stakeholders in order for this study to take place. The research design of this study was carried out using the qualitative approach. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews with 12 students. The purpose of the semi-structured interviews was to gain information directly from the students about the ‘Career Exposure Experience’ and help the researcher to engage further discussion and suggest any room for improvement. Thematic analysis helped the researcher to sort out information into different themes. The findings provided ‘a good indication’ that the ‘Career Exposure4 Experience’ is quite a positive experience since students enjoy themselves, learn and get in touch with society and the realities that it brings along. Every student had the opportunity to express himself/herself and this helped the researcher to discuss the subject in more detail. The analysis was followed by a set of diligent recommendations proposed in term of proper actions thus hopefully improving the state-run programme, the ‘Career Exposure Experience’.